Lexus brushes up looks of RC

Lexus RC coupe takes inspiration from larger LC flagship, will debut in Paris.

What's the news?

Lexus has updated its RC coupe, using the larger and grander LC as the styling inspiration.

As a result, there are larger, more vertical design features at the outer edges of the front bumper, the radiator grille's mesh pattern changes shape from top to bottom, LED lights are arranged in new patterns, there are air ducts in the rear bumper and the rear combination lamps have more pronounced, L-shaped lenses. In total, 11 colours will be available for the RC, including Flare Yellow and Sky Blue.

Inside, brushed aluminium surrounds the heater controls and audio panels, while the knee pads either side of the centre console have been enlarged and raised, creating more space in the footwells. There's a new analogue clock, lifted directly from the LC, in the instrument panel and customers can choose from a wider array of interior colourways.

There's also good news for the RC's dynamics, as Lexus' engineers have retuned the suspension and powertrain, as well as tweaked the aerodynamics, all with the intent of making the coupe better to drive. A new fin shape in the side window mouldings and a duct in the rear bumper aid handling stability, while 19-inch wheels wearing high-grip tyres are said to support 'excellent steering response'. The RC also gains new shocks, with significant damping force from low suspension stroke speeds, as well as stiffer suspension bushings. Finally, the throttle response of the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine has been improved, to 'deliver a more direct feeling of acceleration and a more spirited driving experience'.

Anything else?

The updated Lexus RC will make its world debut in October, at the Paris Motor Show.

Published on: September 12, 2018